Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro For 9 Days Northern Circuit Route
From $. 2,808 USD* / 24/7 service / 11 days
*Price p.p. incl. transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, guides, tents and park fees. Excl. International flight (based on six persons)
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, is a dream for many adventurers. Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it a challenging yet attainable goal for those who are physically fit and mentally prepared. Among the various routes that one can take to reach the summit, the Northern Circuit Route has gained popularity in recent years due to its breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and higher success rates in summit attempts. This is a comprehensive guide through a 9-day itinerary for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, addressing preparation, daily activities, and what to expect along the way.
Overview of the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro, typically taking 9 days to complete. This extended duration allows climbers to acclimatize properly, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. The route offers spectacular views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, lush rainforests, and stunning landscapes. The Northern Circuit Route is known for its less crowded trails, giving hikers a more tranquil experience compared to other popular routes.
Advantages of the Northern Circuit
- Acclimatization: The longer duration of the trek provides enough time for climbers to adjust to changing altitudes, increasing the chances of summiting successfully.
- Scenic Diversity: The Northern Circuit encompasses various ecosystems, including rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, offering climbers a chance to experience Kilimanjaro’s incredible biodiversity.
- Less Crowded: Due to its relative newness and length, climbers on the Northern Circuit experience fewer crowds than on other routes like Machame or Marangu.
- Wildlife: The route traverses through different types of flora, and it’s common to spot wildlife such as monkeys and various bird species.
The Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro presents a remarkable climbing experience filled with incredible landscapes and opportunities for wildlife encounters. A 9-day trek allows for thorough acclimatization, enhancing your chances of reaching the summit. With proper preparation, both physically and mentally, along with the right gear, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey that culminates in standing atop Africa’s highest peak. As you conquer Kilimanjaro, not only will you achieve a personal milestone, but you will also create memories that will last a lifetime. Always remember that the journey is just as significant as the destination; embrace every moment on this magnificent mountain.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
After clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha to check in and freshen up. We have suggested bellow a comfortable accommodations based on your budget from 3 stars, 4stars or 5stars.
If you arrive in morning time, you will have rest at your hotel and after lunch, take a compliment short tour of Arusha town. Visit the local market for an authentic experience, and if time permits, visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to learn about Tanzania’s history. Experience the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals.
Evening enjoy a welcome dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant to try local dishes like NyamaChoma(grilled meat) or/and Ugali(cornmeal).
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 2: Drive to Lemosho Gate and Trek to Big Tree Camp
- Elevation: 2,250 m to 2,650 m
- Distance: 6 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, drive to Lemosho Gate, where you’ll register for your trek. The trek begins in the lush rainforest, where you may spot monkeys and numerous bird species. Hike to Big Tree Camp, a serene campsite surrounded by towering trees, where you’ll set up for the night.
Day 3: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,650 m to 3,500 m
- Distance: 8 km
- Duration: 5-7 hours
Leaving Big Tree Camp, you’ll ascend through the rainforest, with occasional stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As the forest thins out, you’ll enter the heath zone, characterized by shorter vegetation and a unique ecosystem. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, which offers panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,500 m to 3,850 m
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
This day is a short trek that allows additional acclimatization. Walk eastward to Shira 2 Camp, with ample opportunities to appreciate the stunning scenery. Enjoy a relatively relaxed day, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. You might choose to take short hikes around the area to help with acclimatization.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 3,850 m to 3,960 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 5-7 hours
Begin your trek toward Barranco Camp. As you ascend, marvel at the incredible views of the southern glaciers on Kibo and the distinct landscapes around you. You’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by impressive cliffs, completing the day at Barranco Camp, known for its vibrant flora.
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,960 m to 4,035 m
- Distance: 5 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
The day begins with the challenging Barranco Wall, a steep climb involving some scrambles. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. Continue to Karanga Camp, where you can relax and hydrate, preparing for the next day’s ascent to the high camp.
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 4,035 m to 4,640 m
- Distance: 4 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Trek from Karanga to Barafu Camp, the last stop before your summit attempt. The landscape changes as you enter the alpine desert zone. At Barafu, set up camp, rest, and prepare your gear for the summit push. It’s vital to hydrate and eat well to fuel your body for the climb ahead.
Day 8: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
- Elevation: 4,640 m to 5,895 m
- Distance: 16 km round trip
- Duration: 10-14 hours
Start your summit endeavor between midnight and 2 am. The journey is tough, but the anticipation of reaching Uhuru Peak drives you forward. The ascent will involve switchbacks as you climb into darkness, with headlamps illuminating the path.
Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, take a moment to celebrate your achievement and photograph the stunning panoramic views. Afterward, begin your descent back to Barafu Camp, where you will recuperate for the rest of the day.
Day 9: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,640 m to 3,100 m
- Distance: 12 km
- Duration: 5-7 hours
Descend from Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp, traversing through lush vegetation as you make your way back down. The descent can be taxing on the knees, so take care to navigate the trail carefully. Enjoy the increasing beauty of the rainforest as you approach Mweka Camp, where you’ll set up camp for the night.
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Completing the trek, you’ll hike from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive certificates of achievement to commemorate your ascent. From there, transfer back to Moshi to celebrate your accomplishment and often enjoy a well-deserved meal.
Accommodation:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 11: Departure:
Late morning breakfast, them you will have city tour and have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in local craft shops.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or proceed with safari tour or flight to Zanzibar.
| What Included on the Package | What Excluded on the Package |
|
|
Kilimanjaro Mountain Packing List
Communal equipment (tents, food, utensils, etc.) is provided. You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack. Be selective in what you take with you. Our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kgs) of your personal belongings.
Clothing:
- 4-5 Pairs of underwear
- Top and bottom base layer – Icebreaker (Women) or SmartWool (Men)
- 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
- 1 Fleece jacket – Helly Hansen (Men) or The North Face (Women)
- 1 Insulated winter jacket – Arc’Teryx Atom (Men) or North Face Nuptse (Women)
- 1 Insulated trekking trousers
- 1 Hardshell jacket – North Face Resolve Resolve (Men) and North Face Venture 2 (Women)
- Lightweight raingear
Headgear:
- Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
- Warm beanie or fleece headband
- Bandana or neck gaiter
- Headlamp – PETZL Tikka
- Sunglasses
Hands and Walking:
- Lightweight inner gloves – New Balance Lightweight Gloves
- Warm outer gloves/mitts – Gore-Tex Gloves (Men) or Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Women)
- Adjustable trekking poles – Black Diamond Alpine
Footwear:
- Mid-weight hiking boots – Salomon Quest (Women) or KEEN Targhee (Men)
- Camp trainers (Men) / Trekking sandals (Women)
- 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks – SmartWool or Bridgedale
- 1 Pair of warm/thick trekking socks
- Bags and Daypack (click for details)
- 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag – North Face Base Camp
- 20-30L Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
- Daypack raincover
- Travel bag organisers (optional)
Sleeping Accessories:
- 4-Season sleeping bag – Marmot Trestles or Hyke & Byke Unisex
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
General Accessories:
- Large volume water bottle or hydration bladder – Platypus Hydration Bladder for backpack
- Water Purification Tablets
- Baby wipes
- Sweat-resistant suncream
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellant
- General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
- Pee bottle (optional)
Technology:
- Camera
- GoPro (optional)
- Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
- Spare batteries and camera memory card
- Kindle with backlight (optional)
Other Bits and Bobs
- Energy bars
- Energy drink supplement
- Ziplock bags for important possessions (passport, money, phone, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Toiletries, including one roll of toilet paper
- Passport, visa, insurance, yellow fever card (if applicable)
- Small lock for your duffle bag.
Important Information’s to know:
- Children under 10 years are not allowed to Summit Kilimanjaro.
- The duration of transfers/walking are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions and customers fitness.
- A Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when enters Tanzania.
- Visas are available on arrival. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Preparation for the Climb
Physical Preparation
Getting in shape for the Kilimanjaro climb is crucial. Engage in a well-rounded fitness program, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim for at least three to six months of preparation:
- Cardio Training: Engage in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Gradually increase your duration and intensity.
- Strength Training: Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core to ease the physical demands of the trek. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are beneficial.
- Hiking Practice: Go on regular hikes, both on flat and inclined terrains, to prepare your body for the conditions you will encounter on Kilimanjaro.
Mental Preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing mentally involves:
- Researching the Climb: Understand the route, what to expect in terms of altitude sickness, and the physical demands.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Know your limits and be prepared for the possibility of needing to descend if necessary.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mental resilience, such as meditation or yoga, to prepare for the mental aspect of high-altitude trekking.
Our Customers Speak For Us!
Spotted in Serengeti Safaris has been helping travelers from around the world to make their travel Matter as they journey with a sense of purpose, knowing their travel will help have a positive impact on the planet, people, and wildlife.
We are honored to have been awarded multiple Travelers’ Choice Awards for being among the best tour operators in Tanzania. These accolades demonstrate our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for our guests and we are proud to be acknowledged as a leading tour company in the region. We look forward to taking you on one of our award-winning adventures.
